In “Trifles,” Glaspell gives the unfolded panorama of dynamic and complicated relationships between people, especially different sexes, in society. In particular, the author poses the issue of dominating, arrogant, contemptuous, and even brutal attitudes of men towards women, their personalities, and abilities. This phenomenon is primarily evident in John Wright’s heartless actions, who killed Mrs. Wright’s beloved canary, as well as in the county attorney’s and the sheriff’s behaviors, mocking the women for their concentration on “trifles.” Glaspell tries to convey this idea via various symbols, pathos, and logos. For instance, the author depicts the abandoned farmhouse as a cold, isolated place, which is a specific cage for Mrs. Wright who feels like her bird strangled by the husband. Besides, the writer demonstrates women’s capacities to investigate the case in detail.
At the end, Glaspell shows that Mr. Wright is guilty that her wife murders him since he abuses and hurts her continuously and even dares to kill her last consolation, that is, the bird. Herewith, the author does not justify the suspect slayer since Mrs. Peters states, “the law has got to punish crime” but indicates the personal responsibility of the murdered, namely, John Wright (Glaspell, 1916, p. 8). In this regard, the women decide to cover the offense without telling their findings, such as the canary in the box. They believe that individuals are inclined to take extreme measures when they are entrapped in a cold, loveless marriage and a society that does not appreciate them.
In my life, I face different controversial issues when attitudes towards women were prejudiced and unfair. For example, one teacher tended to underestimate the grades from history for girls frequently, especially for exams, thinking that women possess lower ability to study this subject. Nevertheless, one female student, who performed well throughout the whole course, suddenly passed the examination unsuccessfully. Disagreeing with this decision, she appealed to the headmaster to manage the conflict even via retaking exams. The director examined the problem thoroughly and concluded that the student had not to retake the exam because the passed results deserve a much better mark. Such biases are prevalent in society, particularly in the work where males are often preferred for particular positions, including CEO or upper managers. In this context, employers should impartially evaluate the situation and give priority to those who display better outcomes.
Reference
Glaspell, S. (1916).Trifles. One-Act-Plays.com. Web.